Three Rivers is the closest town to Sequoia, but depending on traffic it will take about one hour to drive between the two. Three Rivers is located at 1,000 feet, and the Giant Forest is located at 6,500 feet, so there is considerable elevation gain. This also means that the temperature is chillier in the park, so layers are important.

We highly recommend blocking out a chunk of time to explore the park (particularly on our wedding day) so you don't feel like you are just driving in and out.

Suggested Sequoia Hikes:

Very Easy: Big Trees Trail, Beetle Rock Vista & Sentinel Tree, General Sherman Tree Trail, Tunnel Log (most iconic Sequoia photo, only open on weekdays).

Easy: Sunset Rock, Congress Trail, Crescent Meadow Trail, Hazelwood Nature Loop

Moderate: Tokopah Falls, Alta Trail (if you do all of it), Moro Rock (only do this one if not afraid of heights)

Tip: All of the Giant Forest trails (including Crescent Meadow, Congress, Alta, etc.) connect, so there are many ways to get lost and enjoy this area. We highly recommend doing one hike starting in Crescent Meadow and another hike starting a the General Sherman Tree. Exploring this section (Alltrails highly recommended) is our favorite part of the park.

Landmarks include: Congress Group, General Sherman, Tharp's Log, Squatters Cabin, Cattle Cabin, Chimney Tree, etc.

Kings Canyon is a doable day trip, though it is not for the faint of heart as much of it is a drive along a cliff with no barrier (Alex did not enjoy this and will not be returning). If heights don't scare you, though, it is a gorgeous remote national park with lots of bears to see!

The Big Stump Grove Loop is a great way to learn about the history of logging and see how massive the trees are sliced open. Roaring River Falls is also a nice stop off.

We highly recommend stopping in a grocery store prior to Three Rivers is a tiny mountain town, though there are some options. The Village Market is a basic grocery store on the way into town if you need anything, though.

Breakfast: Sequoia Coffee, Kaweah Coffee Roasters, Totem Market

Lunch: If you are heading into the park, you will want to bring a pack lunch as there are not food options. In town, we suggest: Sierra Subs & Salad, Pupupsas La Sabrosa, Tony's Taverna on Wheels, Riverview Grill

Dinner: Some of the places above are also open for dinner. The primary other restaurants are the Ol Buckaroo and the Gateway Restaurant & Lodge